My first graders and I have been learning how to code with the app Scratch Jr. Scratch Jr. is an early coding app aimed at 5-7 year olds. It is a free app available on both Google Play and The App Store. The developers also have activities, curriculum and assessments available on their website ScratchJr.org

Scratch Jr. allows students to create stories with characters and backgrounds using programming blocks. Students connect the programming blocks together to create a script that will tell their characters what to do. The script is then tested by the student and changed until the desired results are achieved.

﻿I began our dive into the world of coding by printing out the programming block images available on the Scratch Jr. website. You may find them here.﻿ Our first coding lesson was held outside without an iPad in hand. My students were my characters and had to move according to what blue movement block I held up. It was a fun and active way of introducing the meaning of the movement blocks.

The interface guide (available here) has been very useful when parents have worked with the students during our guided reading/center time.

My first graders quickly picked up how to choose a background, pick a character, delete a character, change the background, and began writing programming scripts. We have only scratched the surface of what children can do on this app. The problem solving and critical thinking that I have seen from my students has been amazing. For example, a few students wanted to make their character do a cartwheel. They wrote and tested several scripts until I heard a loud shout of triumph. They had figured out the movement blocks needed for that type of action. I am also impressed by the team work and perseverance that my first graders have shown. They have learned that scripts do not usually work exactly the way you want them to the first time and that they need to analyze their programming to locate the error and make changes. This has also helped them to see mistakes as a way to learn, not as failure. A great lesson in itself.

My first graders shared their Scratch Jr. projects with their families during our Open House evening. I noticed that students needed more practice explaining what they were doing and why. I will be encouraging students to discuss their experiences with partners and with the entire class. Students will be sharing both things that worked and how they are trying to work out problems within their scripts.

The next step in our coding adventure will be using some of the activities that are available on the ScratchJr website. Each of the activities will help the students learn how to create new scripts for specific actions. You can find the downloadable activities here.